The Chamber supports HB 1103 to expand the Pipeline Investment Program (PIPE)

On June 18, 2019, Rob Wonderling, President and CEO, the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia, submitted the following letter urging the Southeastern Pennsylvania State House Delegation to support HB 1103, legislation that would expand Pennsylvania’s Pipeline Investment Program (PIPE), which provides grants to construct the last few miles of natural gas distribution lines. HB 1103 would make grants available to large residential conversion projects and combined heat and power (CHP) applications.

Dear Legislator,

On behalf of the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia and the Chamber’s Greater Philadelphia Energy Action Team (GPEAT), I urge your support of HB 1103 sponsored by Representative Johnathan Fritz (R-Susquehanna).

The Greater Philadelphia Energy Action Team is a group of 150 industry leaders working to ensure the production and delivery of clean, affordable, and reliable energy to meet our region’s growing demands.

As part of the “Energize PA” package, HB 1103 would expand the Pipeline Investment Program (PIPE), which provides grants to construct the last few miles of natural gas distribution lines. HB 1103 would make PIPE grants available to large residential conversion projects and combined heat and power (CHP) applications, and increase the program’s maximum grant amount from $1 million to $1.5 million. The legislation would also direct the Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA) to develop streamlined guidelines to expedite smaller grant requests.

Access to natural gas provides a significant competitive advantage and brings new business and jobs to our communities. The Pipeline Investment Program increases access to abundant, low-cost energy for residents and businesses in the Commonwealth. CHP applications, which provide on-site natural gas generation, can work in combination with renewable energy resources such as solar and battery storage systems. By making PIPE grants available to CHP applications, we can utilize Marcellus shale gas in combination with renewable energy resources to promote economic growth with higher energy efficiency and lower emissions.

HB 1103 helps advance energy projects that promote affordability, efficiency, and resiliency in the Commonwealth. For this reason, I urge your support of HB 1103.

Sincerely,

Rob Wonderling President & CEO The Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia

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